Dr. Lawrence G. Vanzella

Dr. Lawrence G. Vanzella provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Tooth Decay Cavities

• Dental Caries (Cavities / Tooth Decay): Localized destruction of tooth structure caused by acid-producing bacteria, requiring removal of decay and restorative filling.
• Early Childhood Caries (ECC) / Baby Bottle Tooth Decay: Addressing aggressive tooth decay in toddlers and preschoolers with tailored treatment and parental education.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Early to moderate stages of gum disease involving some bone loss around teeth, managed by GPs with deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and ongoing maintenance.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Inflammation of the gums characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding, often caused by plaque buildup; reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.

Common Dental Issues

• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): General discomfort or aching in the teeth or jaws needing professional assessment to determine the cause.
• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Abscess (Localized Infection): Managing acute dental infections to relieve pain, control the spread of infection, and address the source.
• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Providing prompt care to manage sensitivity or discomfort from a lost restoration and prevent further tooth damage.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Vanzella. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Clear explanations of your diagnosed dental conditions, proposed treatment options, procedures involved, expected outcomes, alternatives, and associated costs.
• Oral Hygiene Instruction (Brushing & Flossing Techniques): Personalized instruction and demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques to effectively remove plaque and maintain optimal oral hygiene at home.
• Digital X-rays & Radiography (Intraoral & Extraoral): Comprehensive dental imaging services, including panoramic and intraoral X-rays, to aid in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Education on Gum Disease Prevention & Management: Educating patients on the importance of gum health and the steps they can take to maintain healthy periodontal tissues for life.
• Dental Sealants: A simple and effective preventative measure to reduce the risk of cavities on the chewing surfaces of teeth.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Vanzella. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any treatment depends on individual assessment. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific dental needs, please schedule a consultation.

All dental services by Dr. Lawrence G. Vanzella adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in BC and standards of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

At Squamish Dental Clinic, the focus is on partnering with you to achieve significant improvements in your oral health, address your specific dental concerns, and help you attain your desired smile. Dr. Vanzella frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Vanzella when they first notice wondering if their child would likely need orthodontic treatment in the future based on their current dental development. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation, enabling them to once again enjoy feeling good about their overall appearance and the positive first impression their smile makes without hesitation.
• Through Dr. Vanzella's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from one of their teeth starting to feel a bit loose or wobbly often find they can readily achieve their previously dark, non-vital tooth being internally bleached or restored to a natural shade and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like feeling confident that their oral health is positively contributing to their systemic health.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing experiencing a dull, persistent ache in their jaw joint area that sometimes radiated towards their ear or temple, involves working systematically towards feeling well-equipped with advice on how to care for their toddler's developing teeth. Dr. Vanzella expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including enjoying a cold ice cream or a hot cup of coffee without wincing from tooth sensitivity.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Vanzella about an urgent need to replace a recently lost front tooth before other teeth started to shift or their appearance was significantly affected is to attain a suspicious white or red patch in their mouth being diagnosed early, leading to effective management. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their child being able_to focus on learning and playing without the interruption of dental pain.

Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Vanzella, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Vanzella is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.

Squamish Dental Clinic, where Dr. Vanzella practices, is situated in a central location within the Squamish neighbourhood of Squamish. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Vanzella?

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Vanzella for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Squamish Dental Clinic.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

In British Columbia, the provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan, or MSP) typically does <strong>not</strong> cover routine or major dental procedures in private dental clinics for the general public. Some limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting <em>might</em> be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket, through private dental insurance (often provided by employers), or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families). It is crucial to verify your eligibility for any public coverage and to check your private dental insurance details (coverage, co-pays, deductibles, annual maximums) before treatment at Squamish Dental Clinic.

What are the most effective ways to prevent cavities (tooth decay)?

To effectively prevent cavities, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. It's also crucial to eat a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods/drinks, especially between meals. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings with Dr. Vanzella are essential for early detection and prevention. Dr. Vanzella may also recommend dental sealants or professional fluoride treatments for added protection, particularly for children.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Vanzella at Squamish Dental Clinic?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Vanzella and the team at Squamish Dental Clinic will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Vanzella will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Vanzella for a check-up and cleaning?

For most adults, check-ups and cleanings every six months are generally recommended for preventative care. However, Dr. Vanzella will personalize your schedule based on your individual oral health needs, risk factors (cavities, gum disease), and any existing conditions. Some patients might need more frequent visits (e.g., every 3-4 months for active gum disease), while others may have longer intervals. Follow Dr. Vanzella's specific recommendations.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when necessary (new patients, checking for decay, assessing bone health, planning complex treatments). Dr. Vanzella will determine the frequency based on your individual needs, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Vanzella typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Vanzella provides primary dental care for all ages. Services include preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial gum disease management, and may include cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). They also provide oral hygiene education and refer to specialists for complex needs.

Squamish Dental Clinic
37979 Cleveland Avenue PO Box 830
Squamish, BC, V8B 0A6

Phone: (604) 892-3548

Dr. Lawrence G. Vanzella is a licensed Dentist in BC, regulated by The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

Registration can typically be verified through the website of The British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Vanzella and the team are committed to providing you with comprehensive dental care. If you have a dental emergency, please contact the clinic promptly. For after-hours emergencies that are life-threatening, proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department.